Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club

Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club Description:
(enjoyable and challenging with views over the Gulf Of Thailand)

Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club, a Dennis Griffiths design, is set on wooded, rolling terrain. This Pattaya golf course comprises three nines - Ocean, Lake and Mountain, and has magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the Gulf of Thailand. Large mango, eucalyptus trees and flowering shrubs add color and give a natural feel to the layout.

Gently contoured fairways, shallow bunkers and sloping greens characterize this palm tree lined parkland course. Tee-boxes are defined by planted hedges.

Compared to most other Pattaya golf courses, Phoenix Gold does not have much water, except on the Lake Course, which is also the shortest of the three loops. Most of the water here comes into play via a series of small ponds. The 8th hole is a though par-4 dogleg around a pond and requires two accurate shots to achieve par.

The name Ocean Course is a bit of a misnomer as there is no water on any of the nine holes. However, wait until the finishing hole on the Ocean Course. The tee box for this par-5 sits at the highest point on the course and affords a commanding view of the Gulf of Thailand and Pattaya skyline. The tee shot is straight down a sloping fairway followed by a 2nd shot aimed toward the Gulf of Thailand. Large sand bunkers lining along both sides of the fairway come into play on the 3rd shot into the green. The bunker in the front left of the green should be avoided for it is difficult to get up and down for par from there. The center of the green is preferred for an easy par, or even birdie!

Scenically, top honors go to arguably the best nine, the Mountain Course. A very picturesque range of folding, jungle-clad hills is constantly in view. The rocky frontage of one mountain is adorned with a massive, laser-carved image of Buddha, the golden lines of the image standing out against the grey of the rock face - quite a sight, especially when illuminated by the sun's rays.

A massive clubhouse dominates the landscape with a large center reception and pro shop. It is certainly not as elegant as some other Pattaya golf courses, however locker rooms and other facilities are adequate and the restaurant serving both Thai and European food is quite good and well-priced.

Phoenix Gold Golf Club's easy access from Pattaya plus decent playing conditions makes this course worth including in most Pattaya golf packages.